If you told me a few years ago that Columbus would become one of the biggest stand-up comedy hubs in the country, I probably would’ve chuckled politely and changed the subject. But after this weekend? I’m a believer. And also an extra in someone’s viral stand-up clip.
Don’t Tell Comedy, the underground stand-up series known for transforming everyday spaces into temporary comedy clubs, brought its cameras to Columbus this past weekend — and it was a night I’ll never forget.
Why So Secretive? 🤐
Don’t Tell Comedy doesn’t operate like your average comedy show — at all.
First of all, you don’t even find out the location until the morning of the show. It’s like being invited to an underground rave or an underground speakeasy, but instead of glow sticks and bad decisions, you get gut-busting stand-up in places like… well, maybe I’ll save the anticipation for you to experience yourself…
Let’s just say my show was in a vibey design studio in Franklinton, surrounded by industrial art installations that somehow made the laughter echo and the jokes hit harder.
It’s part of what makes Don’t Tell Comedy so special… these shows aren’t just about the comics. They’re about the experience. And hosting shows in these local locations gives it that Columbus charm that we all know and love.
This particular show was even more unique because it wasn’t just a regular pop-up show. It was a live taping for their digital showcase series, which usually only happens in comedy meccas like New York or LA. This was the first time they brought the cameras to the Midwest. Historic? Yuuuuup. Funny? Absolutely.
24 Comedians. 4 Shows. Infinite Laughs.
Over the course of the weekend, 24 comedians took the stage across four sold-out shows. The talent ranged from up-and-coming locals to nationally touring comics — and the mix was perfect. One of my personal highlights? Jared Waters, a comedian I originally saw during my NYC days, who somehow ended up doing a set right in front of me in Franklinton. Full circle moment.
He crushed, of course.
And speaking of local legends, Simon Fraser — aka Columbus’ favorite British transplant — absolutely destroyed. If you’ve seen his viral TikTok love letter to Columbus, you already know the man has charisma. But seeing him live was incredible. Any transplant-turned-Columbus-lover who demands Columbus gets the respect it deserves will always have my heart.
From my front-row seat (stage right in a white crewneck if you want to find me once these shows get released), I got to see the masters of their crafts absolutely kill from up close. Every comedian’s sets were hilarious; shoutout to Maddie Weiner, Zac Townsend, Josh Adams, Simon Fraser, and Simon Gibson for their incredible performances.
Also, to the host whose name I didn’t catch… you were awesome. Thank you for not making fun of my awfully red first-sunburn-of-the-year-having face, even though I know you probably reallllly wanted to!
Why This Matters
In 2023 alone, Columbus hosted 205 Don’t Tell Comedy shows, bringing in over 14,000 fans. That makes it the largest market in the country for Don’t Tell shows. Bigger than LA. Bigger than New York.
Yes, seriously.
“We have seen how dedicated the community of comedy fans are in Columbus,” said Don’t Tell Comedy founder Kyle Kazanjian-Amory. “That’s what makes the city a perfect environment for taping these specials.”
And if past tapings are any indication — Don’t Tell sets have launched the careers of comedians like Ralph Barbosa and SNL’s Michael Longfellow (nbd) — this weekend’s performers could be the next comics blowing up your feed.
Spotlighting the local comics who work hard on making us laugh is such a great addition to the vibrant art scene of Columbus, and it’s so rad to be mentioned alongside NYC and LA.
TL;DR
If you’re not checking out Don’t Tell Comedy in Columbus, you’re missing out on one of the most exciting things happening in the city’s entertainment scene right now. Shows happen every weekend, the vibes are unmatched, and you might even end up in a viral video laughing like a maniac while sitting on a folding chair under a chandelier made of bike chains (not a metaphor).
🎟 Grab tickets and learn more about upcoming shows here: Don’t Tell Comedy – Columbus